Steiner Explains Why Tech3 Rejected Honda for 2027

Guenther Steiner has finally explained why Tech3 chose to remain with KTM rather than accept a potential partnership offer from Honda for MotoGP’s new 2027 era.

The French outfit had become one of the biggest topics in the MotoGP paddock after Honda was strongly linked with plans to expand its number of bikes from four to six ahead of the incoming 850cc engine and Pirelli tyre regulations.

The speculation intensified because Tech3’s existing agreement with KTM expires at the end of the current season. However, following several weeks of negotiations, the team officially committed to a new multi-year extension with the Austrian manufacturer.

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From a technical perspective, project stability played a major role in the decision. MotoGP is preparing for one of its largest regulatory resets in years, meaning long-term collaboration and development continuity are now considered more valuable than starting an entirely new project from scratch.

Steiner admitted he held discussions with several manufacturers in order to better understand the available opportunities and potential partnership structures before making the final decision.

"I spoke with a few manufacturers to see what was possible and to understand how the collaboration would work," Steiner explained at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

However, the former Formula 1 team boss stated that KTM’s determination to become MotoGP world champion ultimately became the decisive factor behind Tech3’s decision to stay.

"Why did we stay with KTM? Because I could feel their determination. They want to win, and we want to win," Steiner said.

According to Steiner, the strong commitment shown by KTM CEO Gottfried Neumeister and motorsport director Pit Beirer convinced him that KTM still possesses a serious long-term MotoGP project despite difficult periods over recent seasons.

"KTM is desperate to win the world championship, and that is what convinced me. They do not simply want a satellite team; they genuinely want to work together to win," Steiner added.

Tech3 originally became KTM’s satellite partner in 2019 after ending its long-standing relationship with Yamaha. Since joining KTM, the team has secured two MotoGP victories during the 2020 season.

The decision to remain with KTM also comes amid improving RC16 competitiveness during the 2026 Catalan MotoGP weekend, where Pedro Acosta delivered the manufacturer’s first pole position in two years.

With MotoGP’s new regulations rapidly approaching and KTM’s project beginning to regain momentum, Tech3 is now expected to play a major role in the manufacturer’s long-term ambition to fight for the MotoGP world championship.